August 9, 2011 -
East Tennessee's favorite history festival is back and bigger than ever this year! Make plans to bring your friends and family and have a blast with your East Tennessee past in downtown Knoxville on Saturday, August 20 from 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. The event is free and has something for everyone to enjoy.

The Fair will commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Civil War with special reenactments, activities, and tours. Presented by the East Tennessee Historical Society, along with dozens of businesses, historical organizations, museums, musicians, and individuals, the East Tennessee History Festival features fun and educational activities highlighting the people, places, stories, and events that comprise the shared history of our 35-county region.

Special highlights include:

Free admission to the Museum of East Tennessee History

WDVX and Clayton Bank Music stage featuring live traditional music

Living History Timeline -- Cherokee to World War II

Dozens of historical and genealogical societies representing county, region, and state organizations

"Meet the Authors" at Mast General Store

Book sale by Friends of the Knox County Library featuring Civil War, WWII, and other American history-themed books for children and adults

"History Hound" Dog costume contest - guests are invited to bring their pets to Krutch Park dressed as their favorite historical character. Registration is at 10 a.m. and the contest begins at 10:30 a.m. Prizes for "Best Costume" and "Most East Tennessee Spirit."

Free Civil War trolley rides with open houses at Blount Mansion, Civil War Gateway Center, James White Fort, Mabry Hazen House, as well as Bethel, National, and Old Gray cemeteries.

Pinto beans and homemade cornbread

Storytelling by the "King of The Wild Frontier," Davy Crockett, along with a birthday party & cake for Davy

Vintage films at the Bijou Theatre by TAMIS from 12 - 6 p.m.

Civil War living history, graveyard and stained glass tours at First Presbyterian Church